The Magnolia High School Blue Eagle Marching Band

On Oct. 4 the Magnolia High School Blue Eagle Marching Band competed at the Mountain State Forest Festival in Elkins, W.Va. Magnolia was awarded the top honor of overall Grand Champion among the 20 bands that participated.

This outstanding distinction represented the highest combination score from the parade and field competition held that day. The competition, sponsored by the Forest Festival and Elkins High School, was held at Wimer Field.

The all-day event started at 1:30 p.m. and concluded around 10 p.m. that night. Bands began the competition by marching in a two-and-a-half hour parade through the streets of Elkins, which were beautifully decorated for the annual fall event.

Judges scored the bands on musical ability/difficulty level, formation, and visuals. Many parents and band supporters came out to cheer the Eagles on their way to victory.

The Tournament of Bands field competition was scored by TOB’s representative judges. Tournament of Bands is one of the largest competitive band organizations in the country. Founded in 1972 by the National Judges Association, TOB has grown to over 400 active schools. They sanction approximately 140 field band events, about 100 indoor events, and several comprehensive music festivals each year. Magnolia participates in Tournament of Band competitions throughout the marching season every year.

The Blue Eagle Band, under the direction of Fred Channell, features approximately 70 members, including woodwinds, brass, drumline, and flag corps.

The New Martinsville Band Patrons provide support for the band students both financially and by giving moral support. The patrons are still recruiting new members and could use the community’s continued assistance. Anyone who would like to join the Band Patrons and help this group of kids, please call (304) 771-3683 or (304) 455-0172 for more information.

Window decals for patrons members are available at no cost. The Band Patrons meet every second Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Magnolia High School band room.